Can I take Amitriptyline and Zopiclone together?

You should only take these two medicines together if your doctor is specifically aware you are using both and has told you to do so.

Taking amitriptyline and zopiclone together can make you feel extremely drowsy, dizzy, and confused.

Why this happens

Both medicines work by slowing down the activity in your central nervous system (your brain and nerves).

Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant with sedative properties, and zopiclone is a 'Z-drug' used for sleep.

When used together, their sedative effects add up (an additive effect), making the overall impact much stronger than taking either medicine alone.

You may be experiencing an interaction between amitriptyline and zopiclone if:

• You feel excessively sleepy, drowsy, or sedated during the day.

• You experience confusion, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating.

• You notice trouble with coordination or balance, increasing the risk of falls.

• You have memory problems or unusual behaviour.

• Breathing becomes slower or shallower than usual, especially at night.

• Symptoms appear shortly after taking both medicines together.
  

If you have any of the above symptoms, you should:

• Speak to your GP or pharmacist for advice on safe use and dosing.

• Do not stop amitriptyline or zopiclone suddenly unless instructed by a healthcare professional.

• Seek urgent medical help if you experience severe drowsiness, breathing difficulties, or confusion.

• Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the combination affects you.

• Tell your healthcare professional about all other medicines and supplements you are taking.

If you are prescribed both, take them exactly as directed, usually right before bed. Do not drive, operate machinery, or drink any alcohol while using this combination. If you feel excessively sleepy the next day or have trouble breathing, contact your doctor immediately.

Suicidal thoughts and mood changes

Amitriptyline can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or self-harm, particularly when first starting treatment or changing doses. Seek immediate medical help if your mood changes or you feel depressed.

Drowsiness and coordination

Both medicines cause significant drowsiness and impaired coordination. This effect is much stronger when they are taken together, significantly increasing the risk of falls and accidents. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how they affect you.

Complex sleep behaviours

Zopiclone can cause you to get out of bed while not fully awake and do activities you do not remember (such as sleep-walking, driving, or preparing food). Stop taking it immediately if this happens.

Heart rhythm disorders

Amitriptyline can affect your heart rhythm. It must be used with extreme caution if you have a history of heart disease, particularly a recent heart attack or an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia).

Alcohol

You must avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking these medicines. Both amitriptyline and zopiclone cause drowsiness and slow your reactions. Alcohol significantly increases these effects, which can lead to dangerous levels of sedation, breathing difficulties, and an increased risk of falls or accidents.

Caffeine (Coffee, tea, energy drinks)

Caffeine is a stimulant that works against the sedative effects of zopiclone. Consuming caffeine, especially in the evening, can make zopiclone less effective at helping you sleep.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.